Well, at the risk of spreading false information, bcowen, the reason for not touching tubes bare-handed is supposed to be related to the residual oils creating hot spots on the glass which in turn lead to out-gassing and a subsequent shorter tube life span. I don't know this first hand and have little experience with tubes. I do still have the cotton glove that the manufacturer felt appropriate to include with my tube preamp and do put it on when handling tubes. They say it's a good idea, it certainly can't hurt and, anyway, everyone knows it's cool to wear one glove! Think I'll put some sequins on the back of it...maybe that'll tighten up the bottom end a bit...
